EFCC killing allegation in Makurdi prompts grief-stricken mother to demand justice after her 16-year-old son was reportedly shot dead

Thirty-five-year-old Ms Jennifer Atsar has accused operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission of being responsible for the death of her 16-year-old son, Sesugh Atsar, in Makurdi, Benue State, on May 23, 2026, an allegation that has sparked renewed calls for accountability and investigation.

Also read: EFCC declares three wanted over alleged fraud

Atsar, a mother of five who sells fried garri for a living, said her eldest son was killed after what she described as a confrontation involving officers who were allegedly in plain clothes.

Speaking in an emotional interview, she recounted the final moments leading to her son’s death and called for justice, insisting that the teenager was not involved in any criminal activity.

“My name is Jennifer Atsar. I am 35 years old and live in Kanshio, Makurdi. I am the mother of Sesugh, who was killed by operatives of the EFCC,” she said.

According to her account, her son had previously been detained briefly but later released, though his phone was allegedly withheld and he was asked to return with money before it would be released.

She said the teenager was at home with her on the day of the incident before leaving with a friend, after which she received news that he had been shot.

Atsar alleged that the fatal encounter occurred after two men, reportedly linked to the EFCC, summoned her son’s friend to a hotel within the community.

She claimed that upon arrival, the operatives confronted the youths, leading to a chase and the shooting of her son at close range.

“When my son was shot, he was still calling the name of the officer who shot him while gasping for breath,” she said, adding that residents insisted the officers remain at the scene.

The grieving mother also alleged that her son was taken away while still alive before she was informed of his death, and that she has not been allowed to see his body.

She further claimed that conflicting allegations were later raised against her son, including accusations of fraud, cultism and impersonation on social media, which she dismissed as false.

“These are fabricated stories to justify the killing of my son,” she said.

Atsar maintained that her son, who was learning furniture-making and assisting the family through menial jobs, had no criminal record and was known in the community as hardworking and respectful.

She described him as her first child and a major source of support for the family, saying his death had left her devastated and without financial or emotional stability.

Community reactions to the incident have continued to grow, with calls for a transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting and the conduct of those involved.

The EFCC has not issued a public response to the specific allegations at the time of filing this report.

Atsar has appealed to authorities to release her son’s body and ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Also read: EFCC declares Emeka Iheanacho wanted in serious probe

“What I want is justice for my son. The officer who shot him must be made to face the consequences,” she said.